Intel Core i7-640M socket: Socket G1
The Intel Core i7-640M uses the Socket G1 socket. It is a 35 W dual core Arrandale mobile part at 2.8 GHz with Turbo Boost to 3.467 GHz, Hyper-Threading and 4 MB of L3 cache. The same model also ships soldered on BGA 1288 boards.
- Socket
- Socket G1
- Launched
- September 2010
- Cores and threads
- 2 and 4
- Base power
- 35 W
- Codename
- Arrandale
- Segment
- Mobile (socketed)
- Family
- Intel Core i7
- Clocks
- 2.8 / 3.47 GHz
Intel Core i7-640M specifications
| Cores | 2 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 4 |
| Core architecture | Arrandale cores on 32 nm |
| Clocks | 2.8 GHz base, 3.467 GHz Turbo Boost |
| Cache | 512 KB L2 (2 × 256 KB), 4 MB shared L3 |
| Processor base power (TDP) | 35 W |
| Manufacturing process | 32 nm CPU, 45 nm graphics |
| Memory support | DDR3-1066, two channels, up to 8 GB |
| PCI Express | PCIe 2.0 x16 from the package |
| Integrated graphics | HD Graphics (Ironlake) |
| Multiplier | Locked |
| Package | Socket G1 (rPGA988A, 988 pins) |
Motherboard and chipset compatibility
Intel Core i7-640M needs a motherboard with a Socket G1 socket. The table shows which chipset series accept it.
| Series | Chipsets | Support |
|---|---|---|
| 5 series mobile | HM55, HM57, QM57 | Works out of the box |
Board makers publish a CPU support list for every model. Check it for your exact board before buying. Chipset details for Socket G1.
Socket G1 at a glance
| Type | rPGA, 988 contacts |
|---|---|
| Package size | n/a |
| Introduced | September 2009 |
| Memory | DDR3, two channels, up to 8 GB |
| Cooler mounting holes | Board specific (laptop heatsink) |
What the Core i7-640M is
The Intel Core i7-640M is a dual core Arrandale mobile processor from September 2010. It runs two Westmere cores at 2.8 GHz base with Turbo Boost to 3.467 GHz, with Hyper-Threading for four threads. Each core carries 256 KB of L2 cache with 4 MB of shared L3 cache. Power is rated at 35 W.
The 640M is the fastest 35 W Arrandale dual core in this batch, above the 620M on base and turbo. A MacBook Pro custom option used it with turbo to 3.46 GHz. HD Graphics cover office displays. The same model ships socketed and soldered; this page covers the socketed package.
Memory is DDR3-1066 in two channels up to 8 GB.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The Core i7-640M fits Socket G1 with 988 pins. HM55 class boards boot it directly with a late 2010 BIOS. The BGA1288 version needs its own board.
The Socket vs chipset: what decides whether a CPU works guide covers pairing rules, and the Intel Core i5-480M page shows a fast i5 on the same socket.
Memory, PCIe and cooling
Memory is DDR3-1066 in two channels up to 8 GB.
PCIe 2.0 x16 comes from the package.
Cooling uses the vendor heat pipe assembly rated for 35 W.
Upgrade paths
On Socket G1 there is no faster Arrandale dual core stock option, so the path is a used 640M or a move to Sandy Bridge. This page covers both task rows for the 640M.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Core i7-640M use?
Socket G1, the 988-pin rPGA package. The same model also ships soldered on BGA 1288.
How many cores does the Core i7-640M have?
Two cores and four threads at 2.8 GHz base with Turbo Boost to 3.467 GHz, with 256 KB of L2 per core and 4 MB of shared L3 cache.
What memory works with the Core i7-640M?
DDR3-1066 in two channels up to 8 GB.
Sources and verification
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .